Sjögren’s Syndrome and Dry Mouth

It’s important to maintain good oral hygiene, but people with certain conditions are at greater risk of developing caries and yeast infections even when they brush and floss regularly. Among those most at risk are people with the autoimmune disease Sjögren’s Syndrome. Although it is estimated to only affect about three million people in the United States, dentists are often the ones who first recognize each case. Therefore, we at Southern Cross Dental in Colorado Springs wanted our patients to be aware of it.

Sjögren’s Syndrome is characterized by the immune system attacking the body’s secretory glands. This means it interferes with the production of tears and saliva. When a person’s saliva production slows down, they are said to develop xerostomia and will incur dry mouth. The absence of saliva allows food debris and sugary residue to remain on the teeth, feeding oral bacteria. It also allows fissures to develop at the corners of the mouth, where fungus can colonize. A person is also likely to develop bad breath as plaque builds on their tongue.

Because people with Sjögren’s Syndrome have additional oral health problems, they are often advised to have more regular professional cleanings. They may also depend on artificial throat moisturizers and need to increase their fluid intake while cutting back on sugar. It is often difficult to tell the difference between Sjögren’s Syndrome and xerostomia caused by other things, but it occurs most frequently in women over fifty who have recently suffered another infection. If we suspect a patient has Sjögren’s Syndrome, we may refer them for additional counseling to address their eye symptoms.

Drs. Navid and Faranak Rahimpour operate Southern Cross Dental at 1855 S Nevada Ave, Colorado Springs, Colorado, 80905-2516. To schedule an appointment, call 719-471-1717 or visit Southern Cross Dental and fill out a contact sheet.

 

Pericoronitis

If you have a child nearing their teenage years, you may have heard us discussing the risk of impacted wisdom teeth. At Southern Cross Dental in Colorado Springs, our goal is to preserve a patient’s teeth, but the wisdom teeth often encounter problems that require us to remove them. One of the most common problems when they are unable to erupt completely is pericoronitis, so we wanted our patients to better understand it.

An impacted tooth is one which is partly or entirely unable to push through the gum line. As the largest teeth and the last to erupt, the wisdom teeth frequently are impacted, with a portion of them sticking through the gum and most of them still inside it. The part of a dental crown that breaks through the gum line may still be covered by a flap of gingival tissue called an operculum. Food debris and bacteria can easily get stuck in between the operculum and the crown, leading to recurring infections. “Pericoronitis” is the phrase we use to describe inflammation around a dental crown.

It is difficult for a person to clean an impacted tooth. They should still brush and floss regularly and may also want to try swishing salt water in their mouth, but they will probably need our professional help to remove build-up. We may have to cut away the operculum, and because impacted wisdom teeth often cause misalignments and jaw pain in addition to pericoronitis, we will often extract them.

Drs. Navid and Faranak Rahimpour operate Southern Cross Dental at 1855 S Nevada Ave, Colorado Springs, Colorado, 80905-2516. To schedule an appointment, call 719-471-1717 or visit Southern Cross Dental and fill out a contact sheet.

 

Gum Abscesses

Do your gums often bleed when you brush your teeth? Do you sometimes suffer from fevers and a bad taste in your mouth? If the answer to all those questions is yes, you may have a gum abscess. This condition is extremely serious, not to mention painful, and it develops from gum disease. We at Southern Cross Dental in Colorado Springs can provide treatment for it, but we encourage all of our patients to understand why they should prevent an abscess from forming.

Abscesses are pockets of pus, which is a mixture of bacteria, dead tissue, and acid. A gingival abscess is one that forms near the gum line, often as a result of poor oral hygiene. A periodontal abscess is one that forms deeper in the gum pocket when gum disease is severe. Periodontal disease causes the walls of a gum pocket to recede from around a tooth root, leaving the tooth loose and bacteria with more space to colonize. When periodontal disease gets bad enough, it can also cause recession in the jaw bone.

After administering local anesthesia to a patient, we can treat gum abscesses by draining them and removing the dead tissue. We will also determine whether any of the teeth’s pulp chambers are infected or if they have abscesses at their roots. After removing the dead tissue, we’ll plane down the tooth root so that it will be easier to clean in the future. The patient will also take antibiotics in the days following the successful treatment of an abscess.

Drs. Navid and Faranak Rahimpour operate Southern Cross Dental at 1855 S Nevada Ave, Colorado Springs, Colorado, 80905-2516. To schedule an appointment, call 719-471-1717 or visit Southern Cross Dental and fill out a contact sheet.

 

National Diabetes Awareness Month

If you have diabetes, you are at elevated risk for gum disease. But this fact doesn’t mean that you can’t have good oral hygiene and retain healthy teeth throughout your life. This National Diabetes Awareness Month, we at Southern Cross Dental in Colorado Springs want to share some information about the particular challenges people with diabetes face and what can be done about them.

People with uncontrolled diabetes have a harder time than other people fighting off infections. They have more extreme responses to bacteria, including oral bacteria, so their gums tend to become inflamed more easily and for longer. If the bacteria that trigger gingivitis are allowed to remain, gum disease may progress to periodontitis. When this happens, the teeth come loose and parts of the jawbone deteriorate. People with diabetes also commonly suffer from dry mouth as a side effect of their medication, which means they can’t rely on saliva to neutralize the acid produced by oral bacteria.

Redness, pain, bleeding, and swelling are all symptoms of gum disease. A patient should take these as warning signs that they need to brush and floss more thoroughly. They may also want to consider coming to our office for professional below-the-gum cleaning. People suffering from dry mouth can stimulate more saliva production by sucking sugar-free candy and drinking more water. Chewing sugar-free gum can also dislodge some food debris following a snack, but it is not a substitute for brushing.

Drs. Navid and Faranak Rahimpour operate Southern Cross Dental at 1855 S Nevada Ave, Colorado Springs, Colorado, 80905-2516. To schedule an appointment, call 719-471-1717 or visit Southern Cross Dental and fill out a contact sheet.

 

Senior Dental Care

Drs. Navid and Faranak Rahimpour treat dental patients of all ages at Southern Cross Dental! Located in Colorado Springs, CO, we provide top-tier care for our senior patients. Your dental health grows increasingly important as you age. Older patients are at a higher risk of periodontal (gum) disease, extraction, and tooth decay. Proper dental care and appointments are a necessity. Contact our office today to schedule your appointment.

 

Certain physical tasks become harder when you’re older. This includes smaller things like brushing your teeth. Your Colorado Springs, CO, dentists recommend electric toothbrushes. These provide you with a thorough and physically less demanding cleaning. It’s a great investment for senior citizens.

 

Do you struggle to reach the farther areas of your mouth? Don’t let your back molars suffer! Try elongating the handle of the toothbrush. This is accomplished with materials around your home. Wrap it in foam, rubber, or even use tongue depressors. A longer toothbrush makes brushing easy.

 

If you live or take care of an elderly individual, help them with their dental health. Remind them to brush twice a day along with flossing. Assist them with physical tasks that they can’t perform. If they can’t drive, offer to take them to their bi-annual dental checkups. Many times older patients need more frequent appointments. We also know that dental care is expensive. That’s why many communities provide dental care through social services or the public health office.

 

A healthy mouth equals a happy life! At Southern Cross Dental, we provide you with the best care in the Colorado Springs, CO, area. To schedule an appointment with Drs. Faranak and Navid Rahimpour, visit our website or call 719-471-1717.

Flossing With Braces

It’s a common belief that you can’t have tooth decay when you have braces. This is not true. Not only should you be brushing frequently, but flossing too! Drs. Navid and Faranak Rahimpour have put together this guide for flossing with braces. The best thing you can do is invest in the various flossing applicators. Learn more by talking to our staff in Colorado Springs, CO.

 

You need to floss at least once a day, especially with braces. Try flossing after every meal too. Your braces create new alcoves for bacteria to fester. Food that becomes trapped in the orthodontic work attracts even more pathogens. Outstanding dental care becomes of the highest importance.

 

The most important tool in your orthodontic care kit is floss threaders. These are small dental devices that look similar to a sewing needle. You string your floss through the eye on one end. From there, move the threader under the braces wire. You’ll now be able to move the floss normally.

 

Another great alternative is floss picks. These look like miniature forked prongs. Between the two prongs is a small thread of floss. Move the floss around the wire and place it between the teeth. It works just like normal, cleaning your gums of any debris.

 

Lastly, many patients find success with waterpiks. These are similar to the tools used in your Colorado Springs, CO, dental office. Waterpiks spray a steady stream of water at your teeth. The pressure pushes out any trapped debris. Most come with attachments specifically for orthodontic cleanings.

 

Interested in learning more? Visit Southern Cross Dental in Colorado Springs, CO. To schedule an appointment with Drs. Faranak and Navid Rahimpour, visit their website or call 719-471-1717.

Guarding against Incipient Lesions

Do you sometimes see strange white patches on your teeth? Those are signs that enamel is being demineralized, and if something isn’t done, the white spots could turn into caries. We do a lot of patient education at Southern Cross Dental in Colorado Springs, and preventing tooth decay is one of our top priorities. This week’s blog post is devoted to the science behind white spot lesions and what you can do about them.

Enamel is mostly comprised of non-living minerals. As those minerals are removed, the enamel takes on a glazed, white appearance. This could be caused by acid reflux, and dentists will look for signs of it during a patient’s regular check-up. But more often, the acid is coming from bacteria. As oral bacteria metabolize food debris, they excrete acid, which gets stuck in plaque. Bacteria are likely to build up in places that are hard to brush, such as near the gum line, on the backs of the bottom incisors, and near orthodontic brackets.

White spots can turn into cavities in as little time as a month. They are likelier to occur when the body’s natural defenses are compromised, such as when a patient suffers from dry mouth or diabetes. The good news is that they can usually be treated with better brushing and flossing. Orthodontic patients will need to take care that they are using Christmas tree toothbrushes to remove food debris quickly after eating. If a white spot scars, we may be able to cover it with bonding.

Drs. Navid and Faranak Rahimpour operate Southern Cross Dental at 1855 S Nevada Ave, Colorado Springs, Colorado, 80905-2516. To schedule an appointment, call 719-471-1717 or visit Southern Cross Family Dentistry and fill out a contact sheet.

 

Porcelain Veneers

We here at Southern Cross Dental want you to feel good about your smile. Besides regular checkups and maintenance, Dr. Navid Rahimpour, D.D.S. and Dr. Faranak Rahimpour, D.D.S. offer cosmetic services such as Porcelain Veneers to our patients.

 

Our veneers are made of strong, sculpted porcelain that is custom made for your teeth. They are made in a professional dental laboratory. In doing so, the veneers perfectly match your teeth shape and color. They are bonded onto the front of your teeth to give you the smile you deserve. Veneers are not permanent dental structures. Like crowns or other dental restorations, they may someday need to be replaced.

 

There are a few reasons to consider porcelain veneers:

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  Crooked teeth

  
  


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  Misshapen teeth

  
  


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  Discolored or stained teeth

  
  


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  Worn or chipped teeth

  
  


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  Uneven or unwanted gaps

  
  


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  Teeth that are too large or small

  
  

At Southern Cross Dental, Drs. Rahimpour will have you come in for two separate appointments.

 

During the first appointment, the surface of the teeth is cleaned to allow for the thickness of the veneer. Then a mold of your teeth will be made. Afterward, you will choose a color for your veneers.

 

At the second appointment, your teeth will be cleaned and a layer of bonding cement is placed between the teeth and veneers. After placement, a special light beam is used to harden and set the bond. Regular checkups and proper oral care will keep your veneers in great shape.

 

If you are interested in learning more about our porcelain veneers, or other dental services, contact Drs. Navid and Faranak Rahimpour today. Visit Southern Cross Dental in Colorado Springs, or call to schedule an appointment at 719-472-1717. You can also visit our website and fill out a contact sheet.

 

 

What is Peri-Implantitis?

No matter what your dental history, you’ll get high-quality care at Southern Cross Dental in Colorado Springs. Implants are a great way of replacing permanent teeth and restoring the stability of a patient’s facial structure. But they need to be kept clean, or else infection might necessitate their removal. We’ll work together with our patients to prevent peri-implantitis, which is inflammation surrounding an implant post.

Gingivitis, the first stage of gum disease, is characterized by redness, soreness, and bleeding. When it happens in the vicinity of an implant, it may be in response to a foreign object, such as leaking dental cement. The patient may also be one of the few people allergic to titanium. But in most cases, peri-implantitis is a hygienic issue. An implant post will be eroded by oral bacteria’s acidic secretions, just like a natural tooth root. Implants are also dependent on being well-integrated into the surrounding jaw bone matrix, and loss of bone tissue or weakening of the post could cause the implant to come loose. In that case, we’d have to remove it.

Patients with implants must be careful to brush and floss thoroughly twice a day. When people maintain their oral hygiene, peri-implantitis is very rare, but when it’s present, it needs to be addressed professionally. We can provide patients with deep cleanings, but they need to schedule an appointment with us if they are concerned about their oral health.

Drs. Navid and Faranak Rahimpour operate Southern Cross Dental at 1855 S Nevada Ave, Colorado Springs, Colorado, 80905-2516. To schedule an appointment, call 719-471-1717 or visit Southern Cross Family Dentistry and fill out a contact sheet.

 

Treating Deep Dental Stains

Don’t be shy about having stains on your teeth examined. There’s nothing wrong with wanting a nice smile, but in some circumstances, discoloration can also be a sign of a major health problem. Recently, we at Southern Cross Dental in Colorado Springs posted about white spot lesions. Today, we wanted to talk about intrinsic stains: a sign of dental problems in the tooth’s pulp chamber.

Usually, dark stains are a cosmetic issue caused by the teeth being exposed to dark substances, such as coffee or smoke. They can be treated with bleaching and are harmless. An intrinsic stain may be caused by excessive exposure to fluoride or tetracycline antibiotics during the tooth’s formation, in which case it will also be harmless, but may not be treatable with whitening. More often, intrinsic staining is due to infected dental pulp. The infection will likely cause sensitivity and bad breath, and if it becomes severe, it may lead to a facial abscess and sepsis.

An intrinsic stain caused by infection will appear black, red, or purple. We can treat it with root canal therapy, which will eliminate the threat to the patient’s health. Afterward, we may pack the tooth with whitening solution or discuss other cosmetic options with the patient, such as a veneer. We encourage anyone with discolored teeth to come in for an examination quickly; the sooner a stain is treated, the better the outcome.

Drs. Navid and Faranak Rahimpour operate Southern Cross Dental at 1855 S Nevada Ave, Colorado Springs, Colorado, 80905-2516. To schedule an appointment, call 719-471-1717 or visit Southern Cross Family Dentistry and fill out a contact sheet.

 

Denture Stomatitis

When properly fitted and cared for, dentures are comfortable, clean, and aesthetically pleasing. Most of our patients at Southern Cross Dental in Colorado Springs who wear dentures report high satisfaction with their appearance and are in good oral health. But to maintain their oral hygiene, patients need to be on the lookout for denture stomatitis. This type of yeast infection is common, but preventable.

Candida species of fungus are a normal part of the mouth’s biome. Usually, they are kept under control by saliva, which contains enzymes that fight them and helps to remove food debris that could fuel their growth. However, when a person wears a denture, parts of their mouth, such as the roof, may not be exposed to as much saliva. This would give yeast an opportunity to grow.

People with oral yeast infections may not feel any pain, but they can still develop red bumps in the area of infection. Since these sorts of infections most often happen in people with dentures, patients who wear them will have to learn to examine themselves regularly. Fortunately, yeast infections can usually be prevented if the denture is brushed twice a day and kept in a clean container and the patient brushes their mouth before putting the denture in.

Drs. Navid and Faranak Rahimpour operate Southern Cross Dental at 1855 S Nevada Ave, Colorado Springs, Colorado, 80905-2516. To schedule an appointment, call 719-471-1717 or visit Southern Cross Family Dentistry and fill out a contact sheet.

 

Choosing A Toothbrush

Choosing a toothbrush may seem mundane, but it’s actually a really big decision! Your toothbrush has to be just right in order to meet your dental needs. The bristles and head need to be the right size and toughness. That’s why Southern Cross Dental has provided this simple toothbrush guide. Drs. Faranak and Navid Rahimpour can recommend a toothbrush that’s right for you. Learn more at our office in Colorado Springs, CO.

 

Dentists recommend soft-bristled toothbrushes for everyday care. Using a harder brush may seem beneficial, but in reality, is doing more harm than good. The gums and enamel will become inflamed. This eventually leads to teeth sensitivity. A softer brush thoroughly cleans your mouth without damaging it.

 

The shape of the head is also important. It has to reach all areas while being large enough to clean the entirety of each tooth. Finding a compromise between the size and maneuverability is key. Just make sure you can reach the back molars without any discomfort.

 

Electric toothbrushes are a great investment as well. They guarantee your teeth are properly cleaned. Individuals trying to improve their dental health can really benefit from them. It helps you get into the habit of brushing for the full two minutes while being thorough.

 

It’s also important to change your toothbrush every 3 months or so. The bristles will start to wear down, making the toothbrush less effective. Do this even sooner after recovering from a cold or infection. Bacteria often nestle themselves into the bristles.

 

Drs. Faranak and Navid Rahimpour are available by appointment for dental examinations. If your 6-month appointment is coming up, contact Southern Cross Dental today. Our office is conveniently located in the Colorado Springs, CO, area. Schedule your appointment by visiting our website or calling 719-471-1717.

What Are Canker Sores?

Canker Sores are the most reviled and irritating mouth-related problems in the modern world. They are small white or yellow sores that appear on your lips and gums. These painful sores make it hard to eat, talk, and even drink! Drs. Navid and Faranak Rahimpour of Southern Cross Dental has created a guide for treating your canker sores. If this is your first time experiencing canker sores, have had one for more than two weeks, or are getting them frequently, contact our office in Colorado Springs, CO, immediately. This can be an indicator of a more serious condition.

 

Canker sores come in three distinct types: herpetiform, major, and minor. Minor, as the name suggests, are smaller by nature. They only take about a week or two to heal. The major sores are larger and more painful. Their healing process can take up to six weeks. Herpetiform is different from the other two types. These come in clusters numbered between 10-100. They are incredibly small, about the size of a pinprick.

 

Home remedies or holistic treatments are available for symptom relief. Ice, like with any other injury, when applied to the face can reduce the canker sores swelling. Another suggestion is placing a wet tea bag over the sore. You can never go wrong with the infamous salt water or baking soda rinse. Combine a mixture of water and either substance, swishing it around your mouth for one to two minutes. Consider investing in some nutritional supplements as well. Canker sore outbreaks can be caused by nutritional deficiencies. Make sure your diet includes foods that are high in iron and vitamin B.

 

Over-the-counter canker sore products can be used for managing symptoms. Most grocery stores sell these products. The majority of them are numbing agents. They contain a chemical called Benzocaine. Place a small amount of the gel on the canker sore to numb it. Canker sore patches are also available. A gel-like barrier is created across and around the sore when placed on top of it. Specific canker sore mouthwashes can clean the area while also soothing it. All of these products provide temporary relief from the pain.

 

Don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with Southern Cross Dental if you’re suffering from frequent Canker Sores. Drs. Navid and Faranak Rahimpour are here to help. To schedule an appointment with your Colorado Springs dentist, visit our website or call 719-471-1717.

Wearing A Mouthguard

Your teeth are a life-long investment! Just like with any investment, you’re going to want to do all you can to protect it. That’s why Drs. Navid and Faranak Rahimpour offer Dental Mouthguards for our patients here at Southern Cross Dental. Mouthguards are removable oral protectors that are worn during sports or physical activity. They protect your teeth from any kind of facial injury. To learn more, contact our office in Colorado Springs, CO.

 

Investing in a mouthguard for you or your child is essential. It’s a necessary piece of equipment for sports like hockey, football, wrestling, basketball, lacrosse, baseball/softball, and soccer. Mouthguards fit snuggly over your teeth, preventing structural damage to your jaws and mouth. It’ll keep you from getting lacerations to your cheeks, tongue, and lips. Certain studies have also shown that they reduce the rates of concussion.

 

There are three types of mouthguards available: stock, boil and bite, and customized. Customized is the recommended option by your Colorado Springs dentist. It gives you the ultimate form of protection. Your dentist creates an impression of your teeth using a special material. The mouth guard is then built around this. Stock mouthguards are just bought over-the-counter. This means they are a universal fit, so they’re one-size-fits-all. Because of this, they aren’t very sturdy. Boil and bite are a step above stock. Thermoplastic is placed in boiling water to make it bendable. You then bite down on it to create a customized protector. They provide better protection than a stock mouthguard, but a customized mouthguard is still the best option.

 

Call Southern Cross Dental today to schedule a mouthguard consultation. Our office is located in Colorado Springs, CO. For appointments with Drs. Faranak and Navid Rahimpour, call the office at 719-471-1717 or visit their website.

Baby Bottle Tooth Decay

Many parents believe that their children's baby teeth don’t need as much maintenance as their adult counterparts. This is not at all true. If anything, baby teeth require more care. They are weaker by nature which makes them more susceptible to tooth decay. Teaching your child good dental habits now will continue into adulthood. Schedule your child’s first dental appointment with Southern Cross Dental to avoid the phenomenon known as Baby Bottle Tooth Decay. Drs. Faranak and Navid Rahimpour provide pediatric dental services in the Colorado Springs, CO, area.

 

Cavities are caused by oral bacteria. The byproducts they create wear down your teeth. Their biggest attractors are the sugary substances left behind by foods and drinks. This is the biggest cause of Baby Bottle Tooth Decay, and it’s located right in your child's bottle. The American Dental Association recommends only filling infants bottles with breast milk, formula, or milk. Try not to give your child anything high in sugar. This includes juice, soda, and sugar-water. Water is the recommended choice for older children. The water supply in the U.S. naturally contains fluoride, a cavity-fighting chemical.

 

Moisture leads to a surplus of bacteria in the mouth. Avoid giving your child access to a bottle during the night. Carefully clean pacifiers to remove any bacteria. Don’t dip them in any sugary substances like honey.

 

The other main source of baby bottle tooth decay comes from bacteria transferred between mother and child. The mother's saliva contains harmful bacteria. It’s advised to avoid unnecessary mouth-to-mouth contact. Don’t share food or improperly clean their pacifiers as well.

 

Southern Cross Dental is located in Colorado Springs, CO. To schedule your child's appointment with Drs. Navid and Faranak Rahimpour, visit our website or call 719-471-1717.

Gingivitis during Pregnancy

If you’re pregnant, you’re facing a particularly sensitive time in your oral health. Gingivitis, the inflammation of gum tissue, is especially common early and late in pregnancy, as well as during menarche and menopause. We at Southern Cross Dental in Colorado Springs want our patients to maintain good oral health, but also to understand what is normal and expected.

The gums can become inflamed in response to physical irritants, as well as the acid secreted by oral bacteria stuck to tartar. Gingivitis is the milder form of gum disease, with periodontitis being the more severe stage. Early symptoms of gum disease, such as bleeding and puffiness, are so common that many people fail to recognize them as problems. During pregnancy, the body is flooded with a hormone called progesterone, which increases blood flow to the gums and makes them much more reactive to irritants.

Although some gingival bleeding may be unavoidable during pregnancy, patients should still practice regular brushing and flossing to keep oral bacteria under control. It is important not to damage the gums by overbrushing them, but this could be a good time to seek a deep cleaning at our dental office. We can also demonstrate proper brushing and flossing techniques and review a patient’s oral hygiene habits, such as using non-alcoholic mouthwash and sugar-free gum.

Drs. Navid and Faranak Rahimpour operate Southern Cross Dental at 1855 S Nevada Ave, Colorado Springs, Colorado, 80905-2516. To schedule an appointment, call 719-471-1717 or visit Southern Cross Family Dentistry and fill out a contact sheet.

 

Sealants

Wherever our mouths have crevices, bacteria are able to hide and feed. This is true of our tongues, our gum pockets, and of the indentations between the cusps on our molars and premolars. We take prevention very seriously at Southern Cross Dental in Colorado Springs. Sealants are one of the most common treatments we use to protect patients from the harm of tooth decay and make it easier for them to care for their oral health.

A sealant is a plastic coating that is applied to the grinding surfaces on the back teeth. Besides creating a barrier between acid and enamel, it also smoothens out the tooth just enough to make it easier to brush. The cusps will still be prominent enough to grind food, but less food will get stuck between them.

Patients don’t need to do anything to prepare for sealant placement. After cleaning the teeth, we’ll apply an etching acid to them to increase their surface area and then paint the plastic coating on. The sealant will be hardened with a light, and the patient should be able to eat normally within a few hours. Sealants are commonly recommended for children when their permanent molars come in, but adults can benefit from them, too. A sealant can last for as long as ten years, after which a new one may be applied.

Drs. Navid and Faranak Rahimpour operate Southern Cross Dental at 1855 S Nevada Ave, Colorado Springs, Colorado, 80905-2516. To schedule an appointment, call 719-471-1717 or visit Southern Cross Family Dentistry and fill out a contact sheet.

 

Tooth Sensitivity to Cold

Imagine biting into a fudge-covered ice cream treat only to have a sudden pain shoot through your incisors. Does this sound familiar to you? Is it something you avoid cold food and drinks because of? If so, there’s help. We at Southern Cross Dental in Colorado Springs want all our patients to use their teeth with confidence. If a person is extremely sensitive to cold, they may be suffering from enamel erosion.

It is necessary when discussing tooth sensitivity to know a bit about dental anatomy. Dental pulp contains a nerve, and it is surrounded by a porous material called dentin. Heat is easily conducted through dentin, which depends on enamel to insulate the dental crown. Below the gum line, the outermost layer of the tooth is much thinner and comprised of a sticky substance called cementum. When the enamel is eroded or gum tissue has receded from around cementum, heat may easily leave the pulp anytime the tooth comes into contact with something cold.

Thin enamel can be identified by yellow-brown colored dentin showing through it. Erosion is usually caused by exposure to acid. Oral bacteria secrete acid as a by-product of their metabolism, and people who smoke or eat a large amount of acidic food or red meat are vulnerable to developing acid reflux. Regular brushing is essential to preventing the spread of oral bacteria. Enamel may be remineralized through fluoride therapy or fluoride-enriched toothpaste. We can also provide patients with sealants, protecting the teeth that are most affected by acid reflux and tooth decay.

Drs. Navid and Faranak Rahimpour operate Southern Cross Dental at 1855 S Nevada Ave, Colorado Springs, Colorado, 80905-2516. To schedule an appointment, call 719-471-1717 or visit Southern Cross Family Dentistry and fill out a contact sheet.

 

How Gum Disease Leads to Alzheimer's

Dentistry is of vital importance to a person’s health. We work hard at Southern Cross Dental in Colorado Springs to be accessible to all patients because we know how closely tied oral health is to several chronic conditions. Recently, scientists have published studies establishing that oral bacteria are directly linked to Alzheimer’s disease, and we want our patients to know how.

Gingipains are destructive enzymes that the bacteria species Porphyromonas gingivalis secretes to protect itself from white blood cells. They are unusually common in the brains and spinal fluid of people who had symptoms of dementia. Alzheimer’s disease is caused by the development of plaque on neurons. Recent research found that gingipains trigger the production of components of those plaques.

Within the past few months, researchers published proof that P. gingivalis moves from the mouth to the brains in living people. Although scientists say this is probably not the only contributing factor to Alzheimer’s, they have called it a breakthrough discovery. Dementia and gum disease often exist in a feedback loop, with people having more difficulty maintaining their oral hygiene as their memory deteriorates. But if people keep a habit of twice-daily brushing and flossing, as well as regularly getting deep cleanings at the dentist, they may be able to prevent Alzheimer’s from developing.

Drs. Navid and Faranak Rahimpour operate Southern Cross Dental at 1855 S Nevada Ave, Colorado Springs, Colorado, 80905-2516. To schedule an appointment, call 719-471-1717 or visit Southern Cross Family Dentistry and fill out a contact sheet.

 

Using Tongue Cleaners

Your teeth and gums are considered the most important part of your mouth. But what about your tongue? Keeping your tongue healthy and clean is an often ignored area in your dental routine. That’s why Drs. Navid Rahimpour and Faranak Rahimpour recommend Tongue Cleaners/Scrapers. These are small dental appliances sold at most grocery stores. They scrape bacteria and coatings off your tongue, improving your health and breath!

 

Using a tongue scraper is simple and easy. First, place the tongue cleaner at the back of your tongue. Slowly move it forward, scraping your tongue along the way. Rinse it off and your mouth out after each series of strokes. This will remove the tongue coating. There are a handful of reasons why your tongue might be coated, such as smoking, yeast infections, dry mouth, medications, and poor oral hygiene. The coating itself is made of built-up bacteria and dead cells.

 

There are a variety of benefits to using a tongue cleaner. The biggest is that it removes harmful bacteria from your mouth while also improving your breath. Certain studies have proved that daily tongue cleanings lead to heightened taste. A healthier mouth leads to a healthier life. You experience less dental problems when you minimize your oral bacteria.

 

Be careful when using your tongue scraper. Putting the device too far back on your tongue can activate your gag reflex. The ability that allows the tongue cleaner to scrape means that there are sharper edges. Try not to cut yourself, avoid putting too much pressure in certain places.

 

Southern Cross Dental is located in Colorado Springs, CO. To schedule an appointment with Drs. Navid Rahimpour and Faranak Rahimpour, visit our website or call 719-471-1717.

Teeth Sectioning

Teeth Sectioning is a form of extraction that breaks the tooth into multiple parts, making removal easier. Drs. Navid and Faranak Rahimpour offer it to our patients at Southern Cross Dental. Your Colorado Springs dentists know that extraction can be an unnerving process, especially for younger children. This way requires less force and leaves a smaller wound. Again, ideal for children and other patients.

 

There are a handful of reasons why teeth sectioning is used. Extraction is difficult for teeth that are multi-rooted or unique in some way. Sectioning is often required for impacted wisdom teeth. Lastly, it’s great for extracting teeth from pediatric patients. This might be done to prepare a child's mouth for orthodontics.

 

Your Colorado Springs dentist begins the procedure by applying a local anesthetic to the area. The nerve tissue and pulp are severed. The dentist then uses a dental drill to break the tooth into its separate parts. Water is continually flushed throughout the mouth, removing bone chips and fragments. Lastly, the sectioned pieces of the tooth are removed.

 

The entire procedure is virtually painless and simple. The anesthetic keeps the patient from experiencing any pain. Don’t be alarmed if you feel sore the following days. Use over-the-counter pain relievers for pain management. In certain cases, prescription pain killers are given. Follow any post-operative instructions given.

 

Contact Southern Cross Dental for all your dental and extraction needs. We are in Colorado Springs, CO. To schedule an appointment with Drs. Navid and Faranak Rahimpour, visit our website or call 719-471-1717.

Periodontal Splinting

Growing up, you were probably excited when you lost a tooth! It meant you were growing up and that the tooth fairy was bound for a visit. As an adult, having a loose tooth isn’t much of a celebratory event. At Southern Cross Dental in Colorado Springs, a loose tooth is often caused by misalignment, injury, or periodontal disease. Drs. Navid and Faranak Rahimpour offer the solution: Periodontal Splinting.

 

Periodontal Splinting is the act of attaching your weak and loose teeth together. This forms a stronger, combined unit. Just like people, teeth are stronger together. Permanent and temporary forms of periodontal splinting are available. Temporary splints come in two kinds: intra-coronal and extra-coronal. The difference lies in how they are attached to the teeth. Intra-coronal splints require a channel to be carved. The splint is then placed in this area. Extra-coronal splints just attach to the enamel. Permanent splinting is more advanced. Each of your loose teeth is given a dental crown. They are all fused together with the splint.

 

Don’t wait to schedule an appointment when you notice a loose tooth. Left untreated, a loose tooth can damage your surrounding teeth. The main cause of a loose tooth is due to injury or trauma. This can be from a hit to the face, sports, or even from falling. Another common culprit is teeth grinding or bruxism. Grinding puts pressure on your teeth, resulting in misalignment. Lastly, advanced periodontal disease results in tooth loss.

 

Schedule an appointment with Southern Cross Dental for all your dental emergencies. We are located in Colorado Springs, CO. To schedule an appointment with Drs. Navid and Faranak Rahimpour, visit our website or call 719-471-1717.

Adding Mouthwash To Your Dental Routine

Drs. Navid Rahimpour and Faranak Rahimpour recommend adding mouthwash to your daily dental routine. Our team here at Southern Cross Dental, located in Colorado Springs, CO, warn that mouthwash shouldn't replace brushing and flossing, but act as a supplement for improving dental health. It’s great for cleaning areas of your mouth that are otherwise unreachable. With mouthwash, you won’t have to worry about bad breath!

 

Therapeutic and cosmetic mouthwash are the two types of mouthwash. Cosmetic is merely for getting rid of bad breath. Patients invest in therapeutic mouthwash to combat dental problems like gingivitis, plaque, and cavities. Each brand of mouthwash has not only a unique flavor but specific benefits.

 

Follow these general instructions for using mouthwash:

 

-Pour the recommended amount into your mouth.

-Swish it around your mouth while your mouth is closed. Try to be thorough and swish aggressively. Do this for the recommended amount of time, usually around 30 seconds.

-Spit out the mouthwash when you’re done. Never swallow it! Most mouthwash contains ingredients like fluoride, which can be dangerous when ingested.

-Avoid eating or drinking for 30 minutes afterward.

 

Your Colorado Springs dentist has a few tips and tricks for patients looking to invest in mouthwash. Pay close attention to the benefits each mouthwash provides. If you’re interested in minimizing your cavities, buy a kind that focuses on cavity prevention. For patients who are sensitive to certain dental products, invest in sensitive or natural brands. Be cautious of mouthwashes that contain alcohol in them. Pay attention to who you’re buying for.

 

Schedule your six-month checkup today to continue upholding good dental practices. Southern Cross Dental is located in Colorado Springs, CO. To schedule an appointment with Drs. Navid Rahimpour and Faranak Rahimpour, visit our website or call 719-471-1717.

Root Canal Therapy

Endodontics is the dental specialty that focuses on the pulp, tissues, nerves, and arterioles of the teeth. The most common endodontic procedure is the root canal. In the past, when a tooth became infected it was often just removed. Today, dentists can save teeth with root canals. Drs. Navid Rahimpour DDS and Faranak Rahimpour DDS provide root canals to our patients at Southern Cross Dental.

 

There are a few signs that your tooth may be infected. Often, patients experience tenderness and inflammation in the gums. Your teeth will be sensitive when eating, or when exposed to hot or cold food. The tooth may change colors too. If you experience these symptoms, schedule an appointment immediately.

 

Bacterial infections are the main cause of a tooth infection. There are other reasons you might need a root canal as well. If you fracture or chip a tooth, the pulp will be exposed. An injury to the mouth might require a root canal to stabilize it. A tooth that has been completely knocked out will need this procedure to save it.

 

During the root canal procedure, a local anesthetic will be applied to your tooth. Once numb, Drs. Rahimpour will drill into the tooth. This opens up the root canal. The infected material is removed and the area thoroughly cleaned. The tooth will then be filled and a dental crown placed. The crown guarantees and helps progress the healing process.

 

Dr. Navid Rahimpour DDS and Faranak Rahimpour DDS are located at Southern Cross Dental. We are located in Colorado Springs, CO. To schedule an appointment, visit our website or call 719-471-1717.

Inlays/Onlays

Inlay/onlay restorations are partial crowns that are used to restore function and appearance to your teeth. You are going to have your teeth, and your smile, the rest of your life. You might as well enjoy them! Drs. Navid Rahimpour DDS and Faranak Rahimpour DDS offer inlay/onlay services to our patients here at Southern Cross Dental. We are located in Colorado Springs, CO.

 

Inlays/onlays attach to the base of your individual teeth. Depending on the severity of the damage, you’ll either get one or the other. If the tooth’s cusp has no damage, an inlay will be used. Inlays are just bonded directly onto the tooth. If there is damage, an onlay is needed. Onlays are basically used to replace one or more of the tooths cusps. It extends onto the chewing surface on the back of the tooth.

 

These restorative devices can be made out of porcelain, gold, or composite resin. Porcelain is the recommended choice. It is the strongest and the most natural looking.

 

The complete process takes between 2-3 appointments. Drs. Rahimpour will first apply a local anesthetic to your tooth. The decayed areas will then be removed. In order for the inlay/onlay to fit perfectly, an impression of your tooth is taken. This impression is sent to a dental laboratory to create your personalized restorative device. A temporary sealant will be applied while the device is being manufactured. At the second appointment, the sealant is removed and the device is placed. It will be bonded permanently onto the tooth.

 

Southern Cross Dental is located in Colorado Springs, CO. To schedule an appointment with Drs. Navid Rahimpour or Faranak Rahimpour, visit our website or call 719-471-1717.

Dental Crowns

A dental crown is a covering that goes on the top of the tooth. It restores your tooths functionality and appearance. Once applied, dental crowns are extremely durable and can last 10-15 years. Drs. Navid Rahimpour DDS and Faranak Rahimpour DDS offer dental crowns to our patients. Southern Cross Dental is located in Colorado Springs, CO.

 

There are several types of crowns, porcelain and porcelain fused to metal are the most popular. These materials are the strongest and closely resemble your natural teeth. Your dental crown will be made to match the shape, size, and color of your other teeth.

 

Dental crowns are needed for a variety of different reasons. When teeth become broken, fractured, or decayed, you might experience sensitivity or pain. Crowns will let you chew and return to your normal routine. If you need a large filling, or you fracture a filling, crowns also remedy this. You may also get one after a root canal.

 

The complete procedure takes about two appointments. At the first appointment, your tooth will be numbed with local anesthetic. Decay will be removed and your tooth will be reshaped. Then an impression or mold will be taken. This impression is then sent to a dental laboratory to create your personalized crown. You will be given a temporary one in the meantime. At your final appointment, the temporary crown will be removed and the permanent one will be placed.

 

Southern Cross Dental is located in Colorado Springs, CO. To schedule an appointment with Drs. Navid Rahimpour DDS or Faranak Rahimpour DDS, visit our website or call 719-471-1717.

April 2019: Oral Cancer Awareness Month

April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month. Dentists are often the first medical professionals to detect and diagnose oral cancer. That’s why besides your bi-annual checkups, you should schedule an appointment anytime you experience abnormal oral symptoms. Drs. Navid Rahimpour DDS and Faranak Rahimpour DDS offer oral cancer screenings at Southern Cross Dental.

 

When you have strange symptoms in your mouth, especially if they don’t heal or they last over two weeks, you need to schedule an appointment ASAP. This is a serious indicator of an urgent medical problem. Make sure to take note of any of these symptoms:

 

Mouth sores or ulcers that refuse to heal or take longer than two weeks to heal, a strange discoloration of the gums, lumps or hard spots in the mouth, spots that bleed easily, and/or a lump on the outside of your neck that has been present for at least two weeks.

 

The symptoms for HPV-caused oropharyngeal cancer differ from other oral cancer symptoms. With this type of cancer, you might experience a hoarse or sore throat, a constant cough, problems swallowing, pain in one or both ears, and a lump on the neck.

 

The major risk factors of oral cancer are heavy tobacco and alcohol use. Other tobacco products, like chewing tobacco, are just as dangerous to your health. Another large risk is contracting the sexually transmitted human papillomavirus 16.

 

Do not wait to make an appointment when experiencing these symptoms. Your health is not worth the risk. Prevention and early detection are the best tools for fighting cancer.

 

Southern Cross Dental is located in Colorado Springs, CO. To schedule an appointment with Drs. Navid Rahimpour DDS or Faranak Rahimpour DDS, visit our website or call 719-471-1717.

 

The Importance of Flossing

At Southern Cross Dental, we noticed that a lot of patients skip flossing regularly. While flossing is time-consuming, it is important for maintaining good oral hygiene. Flossing helps you to clean the areas of your teeth a toothbrush simply cannot reach. On average, about 40% of debris on your teeth can only be reached by flossing.

When food gets stuck in between your teeth, it allows plaque to build up and can cause bad breath and cavities. When flossing, we advise our patients to use floss that is 15-18 inches long. Don't forget to curb the floss around each tooth while rubbing it up and down to scrape away any plaque and debris. 

Don’t forget, flossing daily helps to prevent tooth decay, gum disease and ensure you have the healthiest teeth possible. Your oral health is our number one priority at Southern Cross Dental!

To learn more about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.scdsmile.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Southern Cross Dental in Colorado Springs, CO, please call us at 719-471-1717.

National Facial Protection Month

April is National Facial Protection Month. We at Southern Cross Dental in Colorado Springs are proud to have so many families rely on us for the care of their smiles. To ensure that athletes are taking as good preventive care as possible, we thought this would be the perfect time to discuss mouthguard use.

Mouthguards come in a variety of options, but it’s generally better to have one than not. However, it is in the wearer’s interest for it to be as well-fitted as possible. Not only will it provide better protection, it won’t need to be as bulky and shouldn’t cause difficulty breathing. Dentists can custom-fit mouthguards, but there are boil-and-bite models available in sports stores and through online retailers. The manufacturer’s website will provide information about how to care for it, but it should generally be kept dry in a case that is cleaned daily.

Most youth sports require athletes to wear mouthguards. It’s also a good idea to wear them while doing activities in which there is a high risk of falling, such as skating and cycling. Adolescents especially should keep in mind that their teeth are shifting position quickly, and that their mouthguards frequently need to be refitted. Updating a mouthguard may be a normal part of an orthodontic appointment.

Drs. Navid and Faranak Rahimpour operate Southern Cross Dental at 1855 S Nevada Ave, Colorado Springs, Colorado, 80905-2516. To schedule an appointment, call 719-471-1717 or visit Southern Cross Family Dentistry and fill out a contact sheet.

 

Asthma and Oral Health

People with asthma may have some particular oral health needs. At Southern Cross Dental, we provide care to patients of all ages in the Colorado Springs area. Although we can restore the structure and whiteness of teeth that have been damaged by caries, we want our patients to be able to avoid them in the first place, which is why people with asthma should know to take additional precautions.

Asthma is a condition in which people’s airways are inflamed and produce extra mucus. More severe cases are more highly correlated with tooth decay. One of the consequences of asthma or the medications used to counter it is dry mouth, known scientifically as xerostomia. We need saliva to keep our mouths at a pH level that allows enamel to rebuild its minerals. Saliva also makes it easier for us to swallow food debris, depriving acid-producing bacteria of nutrients. Although patients should follow their doctor’s instructions regarding medications, they should take dry mouth seriously and can mitigate it by using throat moisturizers and drinking plenty of fluids.

Dry mouth isn’t the only challenge facing asthma patients. To prevent throat constrictions, some patients are prescribed muscle relaxants. This could allow stomach acid to flow upwards into the mouth, through a process called acid reflux. Besides being painful, this can cause enamel erosion. Acid reflux may be countered through lifestyle changes such as avoiding large meals, particularly red meat, onions, garlic, and alcohol, before bed and while lying down. Patients should also be aware that asthma medications are often sugary, and as part of a night-time routine, it’s a good idea to take them prior to brushing their teeth.

Drs. Navid and Faranak Rahimpour operate Southern Cross Dental at 1855 S Nevada Ave, Colorado Springs, Colorado, 80905-2516. To schedule an appointment, call 719-471-1717 or visit Southern Cross Family Dentistry and fill out a contact sheet.

 

How Soda Affects Your Teeth

Drinking soda increases your chances of developing cavities. At Southern Cross Dental, we encourage our patients to drink water instead of soda when possible. Soda is full of sugars that feed acid-producing bacteria in your mouth.  When acid is created, it feeds off your tooth enamel that protects your teeth. The less tooth enamel you have, the more sensitive your teeth are.

We advise our patients to drink soda with a straw to limit the amount of sugar that is resting on their teeth. Don’t forget to brush or rinse your mouth about 20 minutes after drinking soda to remove sugar and acid.

Regardless of how much soda you drink, we want all of our patients to brush twice a day to fight tooth decay and limit the damage done to your teeth by soda. Drinking plenty of water and non-acidic drinks will give you the best smile possible!

To learn more about all of the services we provide at the practice, visit www.scdsmile.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Southern Cross Dental in Colorado Springs, CO, please call us at 719-471-1717.

Dentures

Dentures are removable dental appliances used for replacing missing teeth and tissue. Southern Cross Dental provides its patients with both forms of dentures: complete and partial. Complete dentures are used when all teeth are missing, while partials are used when some natural teeth remain. At your appointment with Dr. Navid Rahimpour or Dr. Faranak Rahimpour ask about your qualifications and options.

Complete dentures are either “conventional” or “immediate.” With conventional dentures, all the teeth have been removed from the mouth. The patient must wait four to six weeks for the tissue to heal before receiving their dentures. Immediate dentures are made in advance and are immediately placed after the teeth are removed.

The process of getting dentures requires several appointments over a few weeks. The dentures are made from an impression or mold of your mouth. Because of this, the dentures are made offsite in a dental laboratory. It takes time for our office to receive your dentures back from the lab. You might also have to come in for a few “try-in” appointments. This can guarantee your dentures are the right shape and fit. At your last appointment, the dentist will adjust and place the final dentures.

Make sure to follow the care instructions given for your new dentures. It is normal to experience increased saliva, soreness, and chewing and speaking difficulty. This will subside as your mouth adjusts to the dentures.

Southern Cross Dental is located in Colorado Springs, CO. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Navid Rahimpour, D.D.S or Dr. Faranak Rahimpour, D.D.S. visit our website or call 719-471-1717.

Periodontal Scaling and Root Planing

Periodontal scaling and root planing is a method of removing toxic agents from gum tissue and surrounding bone. It is a non-surgical procedure that cleans dental plaque and tartar (calculus). Drs. Navid and Faranak Rahimpour use scaling and planing at Southern Cross Dental as both a preventive measure and as a stand-alone treatment.

Common reasons for scaling and planing are disease prevention, tooth protection, aesthetic effects, and better breath. Oral bacteria that cause periodontal infections can spread throughout the body. Scaling and planing can eliminate bacteria before it has a chance to spread. Cleaning out deeper teeth pockets will also clean out colonies of bacteria. This prevents an inflammatory response which leads to gingival and tooth decay. Superficial stains on the teeth are removed in the scaling and planing process, and the cleaning itself can eliminate food particles from the mouth that are causing bad breath.

At your appointment with Drs. Rahimpour, a visual examination, and x-ray of your mouth will take place. Scaling is performed with special dental instruments. They will remove the calculus and plaque and can provide an antimicrobial agent below the gum lines. The root planing will remove surface dentin full of bacteria and tartar.

Follow any instructions provided by Drs. Rahimpour following your scaling and root planing treatments. Antibiotics may be prescribed to ensure successful healing. At your follow up appointment the gum pockets will be checked for any irregularities. In some cases, more extensive treatments may be recommended.

To learn more about periodontal scaling and root planing, or Southern Cross Dental services, visit our website or call today. Dr. Navid Rahimpour, D.D.S. and Dr. Faranak Rahimpour, D.D.S. are located in Colorado Spring, Colorado. Contact us on our website, or call at 719-471-1717.

 

How to Clean a Night Guard

Night time teeth grinding can seriously damage a person’s enamel and cause them a lot of jaw pain. We at Southern Cross Dental in Colorado Springs are pleased to see patients with bruxism using night guards to protect themselves, but night guards need to be cleaned properly. Otherwise, they could become a source of halitosis and covered in bacterial build-up.

In the morning, a wearer should brush the night guard after removing it. As with anything dental-related, only a soft-bristled toothbrush should be used. Although soaking a night guard in soap and water or a cleaning solution will eliminate some bacteria, most manufacturers still recommend daily brushings. But fluoridated toothpaste is unnecessary and should be avoided; the minerals in it could scratch the night guard’s plastic, giving bacteria a hiding place.

While dentures should be kept wet at all times, night guards need to be patted dry and put in a clean, ventilated case. (Washing the case every day is also a good idea.) The case should not be left anywhere hot enough to put the night guard at risk for warping, and the wearer should not attempt to adjust it themselves. It is expected that the wearer’s teeth will migrate slightly, but a night guard can usually be refitted professionally.

Drs. Navid and Faranak Rahimpour operate Southern Cross Dental at 1855 S Nevada Ave, Colorado Springs, Colorado, 80905-2516. To schedule an appointment, call 719-471-1717 or visit Southern Cross Family Dentistry and fill out a contact sheet.

 

Caring For Your Retainer

Many orthodontic patients require a retainer at the end of orthodontic treatment.  Removable retainers are an easy step to take to preserve a straight smile. At Southern Cross Dental we see many patients who use retainers, and we knowcaring for your retainer properly is important so that it functions and lasts as long as possible.  A silly but common mistake people make with their retainers is trying to cut corners -- don’t try to clean or brush your retainer while it’s still in your mouth!  You can’t quickly scrub your retainer while brushing your teeth -- the retainer cannot be completely cleaned of debris this way, and toothpaste can also be abrasive to the plastic of the retainer.  Always remove your retainer before cleaning thoroughly with water and your toothbrush, and use a mild dish or hand soap to help clean off debris, never abrasive toothpaste.

You should clean your retainer daily, and also treat it weekly by soaking.  Soaking helps maintain the cleanliness of the retainer and keep it from drying out.  To soak the retainer, dissolve denture cleaning tablets in water or add a little baking soda to water to make a solution.  Storing your retainer properly is also important for its longevity.  Get in the habit of always using and carrying a case.  Too retainers have disappeared after being folded up in napkins!

Visit www.scdsmile.com for more information about the services we provide. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Southern Cross Dental in Colorado Springs, CO, call 719-471-1717.

What Is Arestin?

When the body develops a bacterial infection, an antibiotic is used to treat it. The same applies to infections that start in the gums.  Southern Cross Dental can use arestin for patients with periodontitis who need a scaling and root planing procedure performed. Periodontitis is a chronic bacterial infection, caused by plaque, which has settled underneath the tooth’s surface below the gum line.

Arestin has the ability to reduce the severity of periodontal disease.  After a scaling and root planning procedure, the medicine is applied to gums in powder form.  In a clinical study, when used in addition to scaling and root planing, arestin reduced harmful bacteria by nearly 2 times as much as scaling and root planing alone. This is because adding arestin to the mix disrupts the progression of periodontitis by specifically targeting the active infection.

If you have questions or concerns about the status of your periodontal health, please give us a call. To learn about all the treatments provided at the practice, visit www.scdsmile.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Southern Cross Dental in Colorado Springs, CO, call 719-471-1717.

Smoking and Dental Pulp Infections

The body contains natural defenses against tooth infections, but smoking can compromise them. At Southern Cross Dental in Colorado Springs, we frequently provide reliable endodontic treatment to people with infected dental pulp. But new scientific research has uncovered why smokers are likelier than other people to suffer pulp infections, and why their infections tend to be more severe.

Dental pulp becomes inflamed as an automatic immune system response to an infection or injury. This prevents bacteria from spreading and flushes the infected area with white blood cells and antimicrobial peptides. The latter are molecules that attach to the disease-spreading bacteria, neutralizing or killing them. But smokers suffer from pulp infections that are twice as likely to require root canals, and a new study found that their pulp has far fewer antimicrobial peptides.

A root canal removes infected dental pulp, but there is always a possibility of an infection returning. We use antibacterial washes to reduce that chance and provide periodontal therapy to combat infections that spread to gum tissue. But patients should be aware that worse pulp infections are one more consequence of smoking, and that there is some evidence that renewed antimicrobial peptide production is one of the benefits of quitting.

Drs. Navid and Faranak Rahimpour operate Southern Cross Dental at 1855 S Nevada Ave, Colorado Springs, Colorado, 80905-2516. To schedule an appointment, call 719-471-1717 or visit Southern Cross Family Dentistry and fill out a contact sheet.

 

What Is An Apicoectomy?

The doctors at Southern Cross dental perform many root canals to save and repair teeth that are badly damaged or infected.  A root canal procedure involves removing any inflamed or infected tissue, and thoroughly cleaning the root canal system.  In most root canal cases, the tooth heals and doesn’t require further treatment. When an infection won’t go away or the canals become re-infected, our doctors can perform an apicoectomy.

An apicoectomy removes damaged tissue and seals a tooth’s root from any further infections.  The procedure involves a small incision in the gums, followed by removal of any infected tissue and finally the end of the root tip itself.  A root-end filling is placed there to act as a seal, preventing reinfection. The gum is sutured, and most patients only feel slight discomfort or swelling during healing.  If you have a tooth infection lingering after a root canal gone wrong, please contact us to discuss your treatment options.

To learn more about the apicoectomy procedure and all the services provided at the practice, visit www.scdsmile.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Southern Cross Dental in Colorado Springs, CO, call 719-471-1717.

Water Flossing

A little floss goes a long way when it comes to oral health. Flossing is an important step to remove food particles that have been left behind after brushing. Flossing can significantly reduce periodontal disease and cavity-causing causing bacteria that leads to tooth decay, but sometimes the act of flossing is difficult for a patient with orthodontics.  The doctors at Southern Cross Dental may suggest using a water flosser for those hard to reach places!

A safe, easy, and effective way to remove plaque around dental braces is to use a water flosser. A water flosser is a handheld device that sprays streams of water in steady pulses. Not only is this beneficial to patients with traditional braces, water flossers are also an option for people who have trouble flossing by hand. You should never get by on flossing alone. It’s important to brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss at least once a day to reap the maximum benefits of a healthy mouth.

To learn more about flossing and the services provided at the practice, visit www.scdsmile.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Southern Cross Dental in Colorado Springs, CO, call 719-471-1717.